Gov. Pat McCrory expressed his condolences to Winders's family and Wayne County deputies

Officials said it appears he suffered a massive heart attack at his home. Wayne County paramedics came to his aid and took him to Wayne Memorial Hospital in Goldsboro. The hospital's emergency room staff treated him, but he was pronounced dead.

"Please keep Sheriff Winders' family and the Wayne County Sheriff's Office in your prayers," sheriff's Maj. Tom Effler said in a statement.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

Gov. Pat McCrory expressed his condolences to Winders's family and Wayne County deputies in a Friday statement.

"Ann and I are saddened to learn of the loss of Wayne County Sheriff Carey Winders," McCrory said. "Sheriff Winders was a beloved member of his community, held in high esteem and admired for his faith, values and love for his family. His service to Wayne County since 1994 made his community a better place to live, work and play. We would like to offer our support and prayers for his wife, Teresa, and their children, Ashley, Carianne and Jessica."

"Sheriff Winders' agency has been a cooperative partner of the Wilson Police Department for many years," the statement says. "We pray for the men and women of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office and hope they find peace at this difficult time."